It already passed noon when Maria arrived at Battleground 7. A diverse crowd of students had gathered, most donning the Academy's formal uniforms, while a selected few stood out in metallic armor or crimson-robed attire. A thin, luminous barrier separated the battleground from the spectators, and within, two groups conversed. One group, led by Carlos, and another comprised of ten middle-aged men in black suits. Carlos noticed Maria's approach and conferred with the black-suited man before approaching her, the man bowing respectfully.
“Good afternoon, Miss Elisa. My name is Odius. I am glad to be at your service.” The man named Odius extended his hand out toward Maria and asked “Now, with all due respect, may I confirm the royal marriage contract with your seal that you put out as the ‘reward’ for this match?”
“Yes, Of course.” Maria handed the contract to Odius.
"While Odius meticulously examined the contract, Maria seized the opportunity to survey the Battleground and its spectators. Elisa had rarely participated in actual combat sessions, so Maria had limited knowledge of the Academy Battleground. Being the main character of the event, she could feel the weight of the spotlight for the second time since arriving in this world.
[[Let's hope this one doesn't turn out like the first]] she silently mused.
“Speechless? I hope you won't mind if I invite some friends to watch our quarrels coming to an end.” Prince Carlos walked toward Maria, a self-satisfied grin appeared on his face when he saw Maria standing silently observing the spectators. Anyway since you have been so kind to give me the power to choose, I will gladly answer the challenge and take the role of the Dragon. Prepare yourself, Elisa, I won’t hold back just because you are a woman.”
This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.
Odius silently watched the two and shook his head “Prince Carlos, I have confirmed that this is the legitimate royal marriage termination contract that you seek. Miss Elisa, this ring here hasn’t had anything removed for the past three days, can you confirm that this is what you seek when you make the bet?”
Maria looked at the ring insignia and the hologram that displayed mountains of gold and jewels by the ring then nodded her head in confirmation.
“Then I announce that the betting is closed. Now for the ruleset, we will be using the standard rules with a few additions. Normally, we would have two rounds of Turtle and Dragon for practice purposes but since this is not one of those practices, we will decide everything in one round. Choosing the position that fits your battle style will be very crucial in this matc..”
“We can skip it, sir. She already gave me the right to choose and I will play the Dragon role.” Carlos cut in impatiently.
Odius was displeased with the Prince’s conduct but returned to his usual self in just a second “Is that true Miss Elisa? I know being in the power role is not a sure win, but it is still a significant advantage nevertheless.” Odius doubtfully looks at Maria.
Maria nodded her head in response “Yes, I did.” While smiling brightly.
Both Carlos and Odius were a bit surprised at the short remark, however, upon remembering who the lady in front of them was and the recent rumor, they brushed it aside. Odius instructed Carlos to stand on the marked area “Then please get into position. Sir Carlos, you as the Dragon will have an hour to either make Lady Elisa yield or push her out of the stage to win.” With the same indifferent tone, Odius instructed Maria to stand on another mark on the opposite side “As for Miss Elisa, you as the Turtle will be forbidden from taking any aggression against Sir Carlos. However, you can still defend yourself from his attack or run away. If you are able to remain inside the stage for an hour, you will be the victor, are we clear?” Maria and Carlos nodded, acknowledging that they had heard the rules clearly. With their confirmation, Odius declared “The match between Carlos, the 27th Prince of the Orgon Kingdom, and Elisa, Daughter of Duke from the house of Cobalk will now officially…BEGIN!”